Karachi: The Pakistan-Afghanistan Joint Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PAJCCI) has called for immediate government intervention as the border trade crisis between the two countries escalates. PAJCCI President Junaid Makda expressed concern over the deteriorating conditions affecting Pakistani transporters, traders, kinnow exporters, and logistics operators.

Makda noted that longstanding issues remain unresolved, and the situation is worsening daily. Pakistani truck drivers are reported to be stranded in Afghanistan, facing safety threats and lacking basic necessities. Meanwhile, drivers on the Pakistani side are immobilized at border points without adequate food or shelter.

PAJCCI also highlighted challenges in the kinnow export sector. Recent meetings with the Ministry of Commerce and a communication from the State Bank of Pakistan have left exporters without a feasible payment mechanism, jeopardizing the entire export season.

Additionally, thousands of containers with bilateral and regional cargo are stranded in Pakistan, incurring financial losses for traders and operators due to demurrage and detention charges. PAJCCI has called for a waiver of these charges, citing an extraordinary force majeure situation.

The chamber underscored that the crisis has grown beyond commercial disruption to become a humanitarian and logistical emergency, impacting workers, traders, and their families. PAJCCI urged authorities to address the situation with urgency and compassion.